"Like any space opera, the story of information technology is a very simple one. It is played out in a myriad of different ways by a revolving cast of characters, but it always has its loveable heroes, its predictably nefarious villains, innocent civilians to be saved, and bumbling bureaucrats that aren't inherently evil, but begin every story aiding the forces of darkness out of a misplaced belief they are preserving law and order in their corner of the galaxy." He might use Star Wars as an analogy (I strongly dislike Star Wars - Trekkie here), but it sums up very well how I feel about computing today.

Come on, Thom! Haven't you seen the posts about what happens when the two sagas work together? You get "We are Borg. Futile resistance is. Assimilate you we will."

Seriously, though, Raganwald makes a good point, and Valhalla underscores it. I recommend the book, "Free: The Future of a Radical Price," by Chris Anderson. It eloquently describes several very profitable business models based on the concept of variations on free products.